A survey released today found that most people see buying art as more intimidating than buying real estate. In the poll of 500 men and women, 70 percent said they have never bought artwork – ever. The main reason? Most said that they think art is too expensive, exclusive, intimidating.

What would help? According to the study by Toluna Research Group on behalf of UGallery, an online art gallery, 36 percent said an easy, money-back return policy, 30 percent said knowing the background of the artist and 25 percent cited a virtual way to look at the art on their walls.

What else is needed: Confidence.

Portland interior designer Kimberlee Jaynes, who builds color palettes and home
decor around art, has helped clients overcome their fear with these words: Expose yourself to as much art as possible. You can’t go wrong.

More for art lovers

Where do you start when decorating your home? With art. Interior designer Kimberlee Jaynes asks clients to spend time looking at quality art and then find works that evoke emotions and reflect their taste. Rather than matching art to the decor, she said, the decor would be inspired by the colors, style and mood of the art.

“It's all subjective, there are no rights or
wrongs about why you love a certain piece of art," says Jaynes, author of "Design It Yourself! A Step-by step Workbook for Interior Design." "So don't be shy about
talking to an artist about their process. Ask them what inspired them to
create this piece? Start the dialogue and before you know it, you will
learn about the different mediums of art and feel more comfortable.
Artists are happy to educate.”

Here are four more casual ways to learn about art:

Go to artists’ fairs like the 15th annual Wilsonville Festival of Arts May 31 to June 1 or monthly First Thursday or First Friday events that bring local artists to the streets.

View art websites and research the local art gallery landscape. Galleries have links to the artists' work that they represent. When you find artwork that you like online, go to the gallery and ask to see more. Gallery owners are pleased to give you the artists’ biography and talk to you about the artwork you like.

Visit museums and see if they have a rental program. At the Portland Art Museum Rental Sales Gallery, you can rent or buy art by established and emerging artists. The gallery will hold a spring show from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, April 18 at 1237 SW 10th Ave., Portland. Meet regional artists and see more than 200 new works. Call 503-224-0674 or go to www.portlandartmuseum.org/rsg